Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness, pimples, and red lines on the nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead, and irritation in the eyes. Without treatment, rosacea can progress to large, disfiguring bumps on the nose, called rhinophyma; however, most cases of rosacea do not progress that far.

Rosacea usually develops between the ages of 30 and 60 and is most common in fair-skinned people. Although rosacea cannot be cured, it can be managed with antibiotic creams and pills. Advanced forms may require procedures such as laser therapy and dermabrasion.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last Revised	July 14, 2009